Filtration assembly and system

ABSTRACT

A filter includes filter media and defines an inner plenum. The inner plenum has a cross-sectional dimension extending crosswise of the filter. The cross-sectional dimension decreases from adjacent the upstream side toward to downstream wall to a location disposed intermediate the upstream side and the downstream wall. The cross-sectional dimension of the inner plenum increases from adjacent the intermediate location toward the downstream wall.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. Non-Provisional applicationSer. No. 15/040,176, filed Feb. 10, 2016, which claims the benefit ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 62/114,567, filed Feb. 10, 2015, theentirety of each of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE

The field of the disclosure relates generally to filter assemblies foruse in filtering particulate material from a flow.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

Generally, filters have been fabricated to provide a single surface thatfacilitates filtration. As the single surface fills with particulate,the efficiency of the filter begins to decline. Accordingly, there is aneed for a filter that is increases the useful life of known filters.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

In one aspect, a filter assembly generally comprises a back wallcomprising filter media and located on a downstream side. A firstaperture is formed on an upstream side. The first aperture has across-sectional dimension. At least one sidewall comprising filtermedia. The at least one sidewall extends between the back wall and thefirst aperture; and a second aperture positioned between the firstaperture and the back wall, the second aperture having a cross-sectionaldimension, wherein the cross-sectional dimension of the second apertureis smaller than the cross-sectional dimension of the first aperture.

In another aspect, a filter assembly generally comprises a top surfacecomprising filter media. The top surface has at least one apertureextending through the top surface. The first aperture has a maximumcross-sectional dimension. A back surface comprises filter media. Amiddle filter media extends between the top surface and the backsurface. A void is defined between the top surface and the back surface.The void has a maximum cross-sectional dimension. The maximumcross-sectional dimension of the void is larger than the maximumcross-sectional dimension of the first aperture.

In yet another aspect, a filter assembly generally comprises a housing.A first filter media layer is positioned within the housing, and furthercomprises a plurality of apertures formed through the first filter medialayer. A second filter media layer is positioned within the housing. Thefirst filter media layer is positioned at least partially over thesecond filter media layer such that a void is created between the firstand second filter media layers.

In still another aspect, a filter generally comprises an upstream sidedefining a first aperture. A downstream wall comprises filter media. Alength of the filter extending between the upstream side and thedownstream wall. At least one side wall comprises filter media andextends lengthwise between the front side and the back wall. The frontside, the downstream wall and the at least one side wall together definean inner plenum in flowable communication with the first aperture. Theinner plenum has a cross-sectional dimension extending crosswise of thefilter. The cross-sectional dimension decreases from adjacent theupstream side toward to downstream wall to a location disposedintermediate the upstream side and the downstream wall. Thecross-sectional dimension of the inner plenum increases from adjacentthe intermediate location toward the downstream wall.

The present disclosure has other aspects as described herein below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary filtration system.

FIG. 2 is a front view of a filter for use with the filtration systemshown in FIG.

FIGS. 3, 4, and 5 are perspective views of the filter shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 3A is a longitudinal section of the filter in FIG. 2 taken in theplane defined by the line 3A-3A.

FIG. 6 is a front view of an alternative filter for use with thefiltration system shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 7, 8, and 9 are perspective views of the filter shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7A is a longitudinal section of the filter in FIG. 6 taken in theplane defined by the line 7A-7A.

FIGS. 10 and 11 are perspective views of an alternative embodiment ofthe filter shown in FIG. 6.

FIG. 11A is a longitudinal section of the filter in FIG. 10 taken in theplane defined by the line 11A-11A.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative filter for use withfiltration system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 13 is a front view of an alternative filter for use with thefiltration system shown in FIG. 1.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are perspective views of the filter shown in FIG. 13.

FIGS. 16 and 17 are perspective views of a front filter used with thefilter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 18 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 16 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 19 and 20 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 21 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 19 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 22 and 23 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 24 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 22 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 25 and 26 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 27 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 25 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 28 and 29 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 30 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 28 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 31 and 32 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 33 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 31 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 34 and 35 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 36 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 34 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIGS. 37 and 38 are perspective views of an alternative front filterused with the filter shown in FIG. 12.

FIG. 39 is a side view of the front filter shown in FIG. 37 with thefilter shown in FIG. 2.

FIG. 40 is a front perspective view of an alternative filter for usewith the ventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a flat panel filter for use with theventilation system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 41A is a schematic illustration of an exemplary HVAC systemutilizing the filter shown in FIG. 41.

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of the media that can be utilized with thefilter shown in FIG. 41.

FIG. 43 is a side view of the media shown in FIG. 42.

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of filter media that can be utilized withthe filter shown in FIG. 41.

FIG. 45 is a side cut-away view of the filter media shown in FIG. 44.

FIGS. 46-50 are side cut-away views of alternative embodiments of thefilter media shown in FIG. 45.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a cylindrical filter for use with thefiltration system shown in FIG. 1.

FIG. 52 is a cross-section view of alternative embodiments of the filtermedia for use with the filter shown in FIG. 51.

FIG. 53 is a cut-away view of an oil filter 1100 for use with hydraulicmachinery.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Provided herein are embodiments of a filter for use in filtering aflowable substance (e.g., air, gas, fluid, and/or liquid) to removeunwanted material (e.g., particulate and/or contaminates) from theflowable substance. The filter embodiments described herein maximize theremoval of particulate (e.g., paint, stains, dust/lint, pet dander,pollen, dust mite debris, mold spores, bacteria, microscopic allergens,virus carriers, smoke, odor, smog particles, metal, plastic, sludge,oil) from a flowable substance.

As used herein the term “filter media” refers to any material capable ofremoving particulate from a flowable substance (i.e., air/gas orfluid/liquid) including, but not limited to, polyester, thermal or resinbonded polyester, polypropylene, polyurethane, polyethylene,polyethylene foam, polyurethane foam, polyphenylene sulfide, polyolefinplastic, coal, glass, micro glass, spun glass, animal hair, organicfiber, fiberglass, acrylic fiber, paper, paper poly, cotton, nylon,Teflon, Aramid, felt, metal, fiber blend, wood, plastic, cardboard, orany combination thereof. In some embodiments, the filter media iselectrostatic in that the filter media is configured to generate,produce, or hold an electrical charge that will facilitate the filterand/or filter media to attract, capture, and/or hold particulate. Thefilter media is fabricated to filter and/or trap particulate including,but not limited to, lint, pollen, dust mites, mold, bacteria, smoke,smog, and proplet nuceli. In some embodiments, the filter will have atackifer or binder which will help hold particulates in suspension andwill give the media a more uniform configuration enabling it to attractand/or hold unwanted particulates. Additionally, the filter media canhave any MERV rating in the range of 1-16 that is determined for aparticular application. The filter media described herein can befabricated of a single layer of equal density, graduated density, orconformed density/shape or form (i.e., denier) or be fabricated frommultiple layers of media such that the media is multi-denier ormulti-staged. It should also be noted that any of the filters and/orfilter media described herein can be finished to enhance theeffectiveness of the filter media. The finishes can include, but are notlimited to being, singed (open flame melting of one side of the media),glazed (heat melting of one side of the media), oleophobic (having awater and/or oil repellent finish), fire retardant, acid resistant,anti-static, mold/mildew resistant, moisture resistant, and microbialgrowth resistant or any combination thereof. In some embodiments, thefilter media may be supported by a mesh, adhesive, or wiring to aid inthe media maintaining shape as forces are exerted upon the media.

As used herein the terms “frame” or “filter frame” refer to a structurethat supports the filter media. The “frame” or “filter frame” can befabricated from any material capable of providing support (e.g.,flexible or rigid) to the filter media, including, but not limited to,metal, wood, organic fiber, cotton, rubber, polymeric substance, andplastic or combination thereof.

As used herein, the terms “void,” “cavity,” “aperture,” and “plenum”each refer, in general, to an empty space defined by a portion of filtermedia that is of sufficient size to allow some flowable substance topass therethrough without filtering the desired particulate from theflowable substance. It should be noted that the “voids” or “cavities”are separate and apart from any spaces within a filter media that existsdue to media formation (e.g., mesh or web of fibers), such asinterfibrous space in the mesh or web of the media.

FIG. 1 is a schematic illustration of an exemplary filtration system100. In the exemplary embodiment, system 100 includes a plurality offilters 101 constructed according to one or more teachings of thepresent disclosure. The filters 101 are positioned in a spray booth 102having at least one ventilation system 104 for the removal ofoversprayed coatings (e.g., paint, stain, powder) 106 from the air. Inthe exemplary embodiment, filtration system 100 is coupled in flowablecommunication with ventilation system 104 such that a downdraft and/orsuction force provided by one or more motors or blowers 112 ofventilation system 104 forces air in booth 102 to move throughfiltration system 100. In one embodiment, filters 101 are coupleddirectly to a motor or blower 112 of ventilation system 104.Alternatively, filters 101 can be coupled to an air channel or duct 114that is in flow communication with booth 102 and motor or blower 112.

In the exemplary embodiment, filtration system 100 includes a pluralityof filters 101. Alternatively, system 100 can be a single filter 101that is coupled to ventilation system 104. In some embodiments, filters101 are configured in a grid, however, it should be noted that filterscan be arranged in any orientation that facilitates filtration asdescribed herein. In some embodiments, filters 101 are arranged on awall as shown by grid 120, however, filters 101 can also be installed inthe floor as shown by grid 122. In one embodiment, each filter 101 has a20 inch by 20 inch (50.8 cm by 50.8 cm) square configuration.Alternatively, filters 101 can have any shaped configuration including,but not limited to rectangular, circular, and oval. Additionally,filters 101 can be fabricated to have any dimensions required byfiltration system 100 and/or ventilation system 104. In the exemplaryembodiment, filtration system 100 includes a frame configured to retainfilters 101. In such an embodiment, filters 101 are positioned in theframe by sliding filters into the frame and filters 101 remain in placeby a friction fit, for example. Alternatively, filters 101 can becoupled to filtration system 100 and/or the frame by strapping,clamping, cording, or locking filters 101 into place. The filters 101can be arranged in other ways.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the filtration system 100includes filters 103 that extend down into booth 102. Like filters 101,filters 103 are coupled to an air channel or duct 114 that is in flowcommunication with booth 102 and motor or blower 112 but could becoupled directly to a motor or blower 112 of ventilation system 104.

In the exemplary embodiment, a user 108 sprays a coating (e.g., paint orstain) 106 from a coating apparatus 105 to coat object 110. In someembodiments, coating apparatus 105 is an air spray gun; however,apparatus 105 can be any applicator that provides a coat to objects.Coatings 106 that do not attach or adhere to the surface of object 110are forced through filtration system 100 and particulate in the air issubstantially filtered out of the air as is passes through filters 101.

FIGS. 2, 3, 4, and 5 are illustrations of one embodiment of a filter 200that is suitable for use with filtration system 100 shown in FIG. 1.FIG. 2 is a front view of filter 200, FIG. 3 is a top schematic view offilter 200, FIG. 4 is a first perspective view of filter 200, and FIG. 5is a second perspective view of filter 200. In this embodiment, filter200 comprises a filter body including a front side (i.e., an upstreamside) 202 defining a first aperture 204, a back wall 205 (i.e., adownstream wall) at an opposite longitudinal end of filter, and at leastone side wall 207 extending between front side and the back wall.Together front side 202, back wall 205, and at least one side wall 207define a filter plenum 209 into which the flowable substance to befiltered flows. First aperture 204 is defined by a front top edge 206, afront bottom edge 208, a front first side edge 210, and a front secondside edge 212 of front side 202. In the exemplary embodiment, back wall205 and at least one side wall 207 (e.g., four side walls) comprisefilter media 201 through which flowable substance may pass for filteringafter entering filter plenum 209 through first aperture 204. Filtermedia 201 extends from back side wall 205 to front side 202 a distance211. In the exemplary embodiment, distance 211 (i.e., depth of filter200) is 17 inches (43.2 cm). However, distance 211 can be any distancethat facilitates filtration as described herein. In the exemplaryembodiment, filter media 201 has a thickness of 1.25 inches (3.18 cm),however, filter media 201 can have any thickness that facilitatesfiltration as described herein. It should be noted that the filter media201 can include multiple stages and/or have multiple densities,graduated densities, binders, and tackifiers within the filter media201.

In one or more embodiments, front side 202 includes a structural support(e.g., frame 214). In some embodiments, frame 214 is fabricated from ametal; however, frame 214 can be fabricated from any material thatfacilitates supporting filter media 201 and maintaining aperture 204including but not limited to polymers, fiberglass, and alloys. In someembodiments, frame 214 includes at least one flat surface to enablefilter 200 to substantially seal against filtration assembly 100.Alternatively, frame 214 can be fabricated in any manner that supportsfilter 200 and substantially seals against filtration assembly 100 suchas, but not limited to, being fabricated from a tubular material, havingrockers, and/or having chamfers. In one embodiment, frame 214 ispositioned within or against back side 205 to maintain the form of backside 205. In the exemplary embodiment, first aperture 204 and/or frame214 form a 20 inch by 20 inch (50.8 cm by 50.8 cm) square. However,frame 214 and or aperture 204 can have any size and shape configurationthat facilitates filtration as described herein.

In the present embodiment, inner plenum 209 has a cross-sectionaldimension (e.g., width) defined by an inner surface of the at least oneside wall 207, for example. At least one cross-sectional dimension ofinner plenum 209 decreases (e.g., tapers) from front side 202 towardback wall 205 to an intermediate location 213 between front side andback wall to define a front plenum section (i.e., upstream plenumsection) 209 a. In the illustrated embodiment, inner surface of each ofthe side walls defining the front plenum section 209 a extends inward atan angle relative to a longitudinal axis LA of the filter. Thecross-sectional dimension of inner plenum increases (e.g., flares) fromintermediate location 213 toward (e.g., to) back wall 205 to define arear plenum section (i.e., downstream plenum section) 209 b.Intermediate location 213 defines a second aperture (or neck) 250leading to rear (downstream) plenum section and flowably coupling frontand rear plenum sections to one another. A cross-sectional area of firstaperture 204 is greater than cross-sectional area of second aperture260. For example, the cross-sectional area of first aperture 204 may befrom about 0.5 times to about 20 times greater than cross-sectional areaof second aperture 260. Thus, the illustrated inner plenum 209 has agenerally hourglass shape (i.e., hourglass shape in longitudinalsection). The filter also has an hourglass shape in longitudinalsection. Plenum 209 and/or filter 200 may have other shapes withoutnecessarily departing from the scope of the present invention.

In the illustrated embodiment, side wall 207 includes a top filter wall220, a bottom filter wall 230, a first side filter wall 240, and asecond side filter wall 250. In the exemplary embodiment, top filterwall 220 is coupled to first side filter wall 240 along seam 251 andcoupled to second side filter wall 250 along seam 252. Likewise, bottomfilter wall 230 is coupled to first side filter wall 240 along seam 253and coupled to second side filter wall 250 along seam 254. Couplingadjacent walls (e.g., walls 220 and 240) forms second aperture (or neck)260 and thus a void between front side 204 and back wall 205. In theexemplary embodiment, adjacent walls are coupled together along seams251, 252, 253, and 254 for a length of 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) formingsecond aperture 260 to be 8 inches by 8 inches (20.32 cm by 20.32 cm).Additionally, coupling adjacent walls together along seams 251, 252,253, and 254 for a length of 8.5 inches (21.6 cm) forms an apertureangle 262 on filter walls 220, 230, 240, and 250. In such an embodiment,aperture angle 262 is approximately 123°. Alternatively, walls 220, 230,240, and 250 can be coupled together to form any sized second aperture260 having any shape. As such, walls 220, 230, 240, and 250 can becoupled together such that one or more of seams 251, 252, 253, and 254is a different length forming a rectangle in second aperture 262 and oneor more different aperture angles 262.

In the exemplary embodiment, walls 220, 230, 240, and 250 are coupled toeach other by stitching. However, it should be noted that walls 220,230, 240, and 250 can be coupled in any manner that facilitatesretaining filter media against itself including, but not limited to,heat staking, gluing, laminating, and ultrasonically welding. It shouldbe noted that filter 200 can be fabricated from a single layer of filtermedia 201 to produce a filter without seams. Additionally, filter 200can have any number of seams including, but not limited to, 1, 2, 3, 4,5, and 6. Filter 200 is fabricated with filter media 201 to form walls205, 220, 230, 240, and 250, having a particulate side 207 and a cleanside 209.

In operation, particulate-laden (e.g., dirty) air flow D enters innerplenum 209 through first aperture 204 and clean air flow C is dischargedthrough at least one of side wall 207 (e.g., filter walls 220, 230, 240,and 250) and back wall 205 towards motor or blower 112 (shown in FIG.1). More specifically, particulate-laden flow D enters front plenumsection 209 a through first aperture 204 and particulate begins toaccumulate on inner or particulate side 207 of walls 220, 230, 240, and250 defining front plenum section (i.e., first or upstream filter body200 a). As such, filter media of first filter portion 200 a acts as afirst filter body that is upstream of back wall 205. It is believed thatat this stage, most of the filtering is done by first filter body 200 a.As particulate accumulates on particle side 207 of first filter body 200a, second aperture 260 begins to draw flow into second plenum portion209 b. As flow D enters second or downstream plenum section 209 bthrough second aperture 260, the flow is redirected or spread acrossparticulate side 207 of portions of walls 220, 230, 240, and 250 andback wall 205 defining second (or downstream) plenum portion 209 b(i.e., second or downstream filter body 200 b). In some embodiments, asparticulate begins to accumulate on particulate side 207 of back wall205 a loss of suction in will occur in the areas receiving particulateaccumulation which will redirect flow D to a portion of back wall 205having less accumulation.

FIGS. 6, 7, 8, and 9 are illustrations of another embodiment of a filter300 for use with filtration system 100 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is afront view of filter 300, FIG. 7 is a side schematic view of filter 300,FIG. 8 is a first perspective view of filter 300, and FIG. 9 is a secondperspective view of filter 300. In the exemplary embodiment, filter 300includes a front side 303 having a first aperture 304 and a back sidewall 305. First aperture 304 is defined by a front top edge 306, a frontbottom edge 308, a front first side edge 310, and a front second sideedge 312. In the exemplary embodiment, filter media 301 extends fromback side wall 305 to front side 303 a distance 311 and encloses a frame314 to form first aperture 304. In the exemplary embodiment, distance311 (i.e., depth of filter 300) is 17 inches (43.2 cm). However,distance 311 can be any distance that facilitates filtration asdescribed herein.

In some embodiments, frame 314 is fabricated from a metal, however,frame 314 can be fabricated from any material that facilitatessupporting filter media 301 and maintaining aperture 304 including butnot limited to polymers, fiberglass, and alloys. In some embodiments,frame 314 is flat to enable filter 300 to substantially seal againstfiltration assembly 100. Alternatively, frame 314 can be fabricated inany manner that supports filter 300 and substantially seals againstfiltration assembly 100 such as, but not limited to, being fabricatedfrom a tubular material, having rockers, and/or having chamfers. In oneembodiment, frame 314 is positioned within or against back side 305 tomaintain the form of back side 305. In the exemplary embodiment, firstaperture 304 and/or frame 314 form a 20 inch by 20 inch (50.8 cm by 50.8cm) square. However, frame 314 and or aperture 304 can have any size andshape configuration that facilitates filtration as described herein.

Filter 300 also includes a top filter wall 320, a bottom filter wall330, a first side filter wall 340, and a second side filter wall 350. Inthe exemplary embodiment, a plurality of vanes 352 extend through filtermedia 301 from top filter wall 320 to bottom filter wall 330 to form asecond aperture 360 in filter 300. In general, filter 300 is similar tofilter 200. One main difference is only one cross-sectional dimension ofinner plenum 309 decreases (e.g., tapers) from front side 302 towardback wall 305 to an intermediate location 313 between front side andback wall to define a front plenum section (i.e., upstream plenumsection) 309 a. In the illustrated embodiment, inner surface of only onepair of opposing the side walls partially defining the front plenumsection 309 a extends inward at an angle relative to a longitudinal axisLA of the filter. Moreover, only one cross-sectional dimension of innerplenum increases (e.g., flares) from intermediate location 313 toward(e.g., to) back wall 305 to define a rear plenum section (i.e.,downstream plenum section) 309 b. Intermediate location 313 defines asecond aperture (or neck) 350 leading to rear plenum section andflowably coupling front and read plenum sections to one another. Across-sectional area of first aperture 304 is greater thancross-sectional area of second aperture 360. For example, thecross-sectional area of first aperture 304 may be from about 0.5 timesto about 20 times greater than cross-sectional area of second aperture360. Thus, the illustrated inner plenum 309 and filter 300 has agenerally hourglass shape in cross section taken in only onecross-sectional plane. Plenum and/or filter may have other shapeswithout necessarily departing from the scope of the present invention.

In one embodiment, fasteners (e.g., vanes 352) fasten opposing sidewalls 307 at or near the intermediate location (e.g., midpoint of length311) to form the hourglass shape in cross section. In some embodiments,vanes 352 are fabricated from a substantially slippery (e.g.,lubricious) material that generally resists adherence to particulate(e.g., paint, stain, dust, dirt) including, but not limited to, nylon,polyvinylidene fluoride, polyethylene, Dacron, and Dyneema. In theexemplary embodiment, fasteners (e.g., vanes) 352 extend for a length of6 inches (15.24 cm) forming the second aperture 360 to be approximatelya 20 inch by 2 inch (50.8 cm by 5.08 cm) rectangle. Additionally, theuse of 5 inch (12.7 cm) vanes 352 at the midpoint of length 311 forms anaperture angle a on filter walls 320 and 330. In such an embodiment,aperture angle a is approximately 109°. Alternatively, vanes 352 canhave any length and be positioned at any location along length 311 offilter 300 to form any sized second aperture 360 having any shape. Insome embodiments, vanes 352 are positioned between walls 320 and 330 aswell as between walls 340 and 350 to form a filter similar in shape tothat shown in FIGS. 2-5.

In operation, particulate-laden (e.g., dirty) air flow D enters innerplenum 309 through first aperture 304 and clean air flow C is dischargedthrough at least one of side wall 307 (e.g., filter walls 320, 330, 340,and 350) and back wall 305 towards motor or blower 112 (shown in FIG.1). More specifically, particulate-laden flow D enters front plenumsection 309 a through first aperture 304 and particulate begins toaccumulate on inner or particulate side 307 of walls 320, 330, 340, and350 defining front plenum section (i.e., first or upstream filter body300 a). As such, filter media of first filter portion 300 a acts as afirst filter body that is upstream of back wall 305. It is believed thatat this stage, most of the filtering is done by first filter body 300 a.As particulate accumulates on particle side 307 of first filter body 300a, second aperture 360 begins to draw flow into second plenum portion309 b. As flow D enters second or downstream plenum section 309 bthrough second aperture 360, the flow is redirected or spread acrossparticulate side 307 of portions of walls 320, 330, 340, and 350 andback wall 305 defining second (or downstream) plenum portion 309 b(i.e., second or downstream filter body 300 b). In some embodiments, asparticulate begins to accumulate on particulate side 307 of back wall305 a loss of suction in will occur in the areas receiving particulateaccumulation which will redirect flow D to a portion of back wall 305having less accumulation.

In one embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, vanes 352 of filter 300are replaced with a band 370 positioned around clean side 309 of filter300. In such an embodiment, band 370 extends around side wall 307 offilter 300 to decrease the cross-sectional dimensions at theintermediate location 311 to form second aperture 360 into asubstantially circular shape. However, band 370 can be positioned aroundfilter 300 to form second aperture 360 into any shape that facilitatesfiltration as described herein including, but not limited to, square,oval, diamond, star, and rectangular. In one embodiment band 370 isformed from a flexible material such as, but not limited to, rubber,nylon, elastomers, polyphenylene sulfide, animal hair, cotton, felt,organic fiber, isoprene, polymers, polyvinylidene fluoride, metal,polyethylene, paper, polyurethane, glue, Dacron, and Dyneema.Alternatively, band 370 can be formed of a substantially rigid materialthat enables second aperture 360 to be formed into predetermined shapesby having band 370 substantially maintain form including, but notlimited to, metal, wood, glue, animal hair, organic fiber, cotton, felt,and plastic.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an alternative filter 400 for use withfiltration system 100 shown in FIG. 1. In the exemplary embodiment,filter 400 includes a front side 402 having a first aperture 404 and aback wall 405. First aperture 404 is defined by a front top edge 406, afront bottom edge 408, a front first side edge 410, and a front secondside edge 412. In the exemplary embodiment, filter media 401 extendsfrom back side wall 405 to front side 402 a distance 411 and encloses aframe 414 to form first aperture 404. In the exemplary embodiment,distance 411 (i.e., depth of filter 400) is 17 inches (43.18 cm).However, distance 411 can be any distance that facilitates filtration asdescribed herein. In the exemplary embodiment, filter media 401 has athickness of 1.25 inches (3.175 cm), however, filter media 401 can haveany thickness that facilitates filtration as described herein. It shouldbe noted that the filter media 401 can include multiple stages and/orhave multiple densities and/or graduated within the filter media 401.

In some embodiments, frame 414 is fabricated from a metal, however,frame 414 can be fabricated from any material that facilitatessupporting filter media 401 and maintaining aperture 404 including butnot limited to polymers, fiberglass, and alloys. In some embodiments,frame 414 includes at least one flat surface to enable filter 400 tosubstantially seal against filtration assembly 100. Alternatively, frame414 can be fabricated in any manner that supports filter 400 andsubstantially seals against filtration assembly 100 such as, but notlimited to, being fabricated from a tubular material, having rockers,and/or having chamfers. In one embodiment, frame 414 is positionedwithin or against back side 405 to maintain the form of back side 405.In the exemplary embodiment, first aperture 404 and/or frame 414 form a20 inch by 20 inch (50.8 cm by 50.8 cm) square. However, frame 414and/or aperture 404 can have any size and shape configuration thatfacilitates filtration as described herein.

Filter 404 also includes a top filter wall 420, a bottom filter wall430, a first side filter wall 440, and a second side filter wall 450. Inthe exemplary embodiment, bottom filter wall 430 is coupled to firstside filter wall 440 along seam 451 and coupled to second side filterwall 450 along seam 452. In the exemplary embodiment, adjacent walls canbe coupled together by stitching. However, it should be noted that walls420, 430, 440, and 450 can be coupled in any manner that facilitatesretaining filter media against itself including, but not limited to,heat staking, gluing, laminating, stitching, and ultrasonically welding.It should be noted that filter 400 can be fabricated from a single layerof filter media 401 to produce a filter without seams. Additionally,filter 400 can have any number of seams including, but not limited to,1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6. Filter 400 is fabricated with filter media 401 toform walls 405, 420, 430, 440, and 450, having a particulate side and aclean side.

In operation, particulate-laden air flow D enters first aperture 404 andclean air flow C is discharged through back wall 405. More specifically,particulate-laden flow D enters first aperture 404 and particulatebegins to accumulate on particulate side 207 of wall 450.

FIGS. 13, 14, and 15 are illustrations of an alternative filter 500 foruse with filtration system 100 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 13 is a frontperspective view of filter 300, FIG. 14 is a bottom perspective view offilter 500, and FIG. 15 is a side schematic view of filter 500. In theexemplary embodiment, filter 500 includes a front side 502 having afirst aperture 504 and a back side wall 505. First aperture 504 isdefined by a front top edge 506, a front bottom edge 508, a front firstside edge 510, and a front second side edge 512. In the exemplaryembodiment, filter media 501 extends from back side wall 505 to frontside 502 a distance 511 and encloses a frame 514 to form first aperture504. In the exemplary embodiment, distance 511 (i.e., depth of filter500) is 17 inches (43.2 cm). However, distance 511 can be any distancethat facilitates filtration as described herein.

In some embodiments, frame 514 is fabricated from a metal, however,frame 514 can be fabricated from any material that facilitatessupporting filter media 501 and maintaining aperture 504 including butnot limited to polymers, fiberglass, and alloys. In some embodiments,frame 514 is flat to enable filter 500 to substantially seal againstfiltration assembly 100. Alternatively, frame 514 can be fabricated inany manner that supports filter 500 and substantially seals againstfiltration assembly 100 such as, but not limited to, being fabricatedfrom a tubular material, having rockers, and/or having chamfers. In oneembodiment, frame 514 is positioned within or against back side 505 tomaintain the form of back side 505. In the exemplary embodiment, firstaperture 504 and/or frame 514 form a 20 inch by 20 inch (50.8 cm by 50.8cm) square. However, frame 514 and or aperture 504 can have any size andshape configuration that facilitates filtration as described herein.

Filter 500 also includes a top filter wall 520, a bottom filter wall530, a first side filter wall 540, and a second side filter wall 550. Inthe exemplary embodiment, filter 500 includes a divider surface 560 thathas a first flange 562 and a second flange 564. Divider surface 560 isfabricated from filter media 501. In one embodiment, divider surface 560is fabricated with frame 514 supporting surface 560. In someembodiments, frame 514 supporting surface 560 is coupled to frame 514which supports and maintains aperture 504. Alternatively, surface 560can be fabricated independently of filter 500 and be coupled (e.g.,stitching, heat staking, gluing, laminating, and ultrasonically welding)to filter 500 after or during the fabrication of walls 520, 530, 540,and 550.

In the exemplary embodiment, back wall 505 is fabricated in a concavemanner to form a V-shape. Such a shape of back wall 505 can enable amore efficient stacking of filters to provide a more economical andefficient shipping of a plurality of filters. Alternatively, back wall505 can have any shape that facilities filtration as described hereinincluding being substantially planar (e.g., flat) as shown in filtersdescribed above. Also, it should be noted that any of the filtersdescribed above can be fabricated to have a back wall that issubstantially or fully in a concave or convex shape to increase theefficacy of the filter. Additionally, the construct of the filtersdescribed above having a second aperture enables the filter to becompressed from the filter's initial construct to enable a moreefficient stacking of filters to provide a more economical and efficientshipping of a plurality of filters.

In the exemplary embodiment, filter media 501, and thus walls 505, 520,530, 540, and 550, has a particulate side 507 and a clean side 509. Inoperation, particulate-laden air flow D enters first aperture 304 andclean air flow C is discharged through back wall 505. More specifically,particulate-laden flow D enters first aperture 504 and particulatebegins to accumulate on particulate side 507 of surface 560. As surface560 begins to accumulate particulate, air flow D is redirected arounddivider 560 and distributed throughout particulate side 507 of back wall505. As such, surface 560 acts as a pre-filter before air flow Dcontacts back wall 505.

It should be noted that the frames (e.g., 214 and 314) described abovewithin filters can be positioned within a mating section (e.g., firstapertures 204 and 304) or within more sections of the filters to providestructural support of a desired shaped of the filter. For example,frames can be positioned along the back walls (e.g., 205 and 305) tomaintain a substantially square shape. Additionally, frames can extendbetween mating sections and back walls to maintain desired shapes of thefilters, such as those shown in FIGS. 2-13. In some embodiments, frameshaving a predetermined shape can be provided and filter media can bewrapped around the frame to form a filter. In such an embodiment, a backwall can be positioned on the frame and/or filter media and the backwall and wrapped filter media can be secured together by techniquesdescribed above (e.g., heat staking, stitching, gluing, laminating, andultrasonically welding) to complete the filter. It should also be notedthat filters shown in FIGS. 2-13 can be fabricated without a frame suchthat the filter is supported by or within a filter retainer and/orretention system (e.g., grid 120).

Each of the filters described herein can include a front filter orpre-filter to enhance the efficacy of the filter. As such, FIGS. 16-39illustrate exemplary embodiments of front filters for use with thefilters described above. For ease of reference, each front filter willbe shown in a front view with a cube filter, such as filter 400 shown inFIG. 12, with shading to represent the back wall (e.g., 405) of thefilter. A side view of the front filter will also be depicted with acube filter, such as filter 400 shown in FIG. 12, and a bowtie orpyramid filter, such as filters 200 and 300 shown in FIGS. 2-11, toillustrate airflow with each front filter. In some embodiments, thefilter media utilized with the front filter differs from the rest of thefilter in at least one of density, material, and/or layers.Alternatively, in some embodiments, the filter media of the front filteris substantially the same as that used in the rest of the filter.

As noted above, the front filters or pre-filters 600, 610, 620, 630,640, 650, 660, and 670 shown in FIGS. 16-39 can be utilized with any ofthe filters shown in FIGS. 2-15. In the exemplary embodiment, the frontfilters 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, and 670 are fixedly coupledto the filter in a manner described above (e.g., stitching, heatstaking, gluing, laminating, and ultrasonically welding). In someembodiments, front filters 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, and 670incorporate a frame that is coupled to the frame of the filter.Alternatively the front filters 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, and670 may have a support frame that is integrally formed within the frontfilter. In some embodiments, the font filters 600, 610, 620, 630, 640,650, 660, and 670 are removably coupled to the filter to enablereplacement and/or cleaning without requiring the entire assembly to beremoved. In such an embodiment, the front filter 600, 610, 620, 630,640, 650, 660, and 670 is removably coupled with a hook and loopfastening system. Alternatively, the front filters can be removablycoupled in any manner that secures the front filter to one the filtersdescribed herein including, but not limited to being secured by amagnet, electromagnet, snap, button, zipper, and latch.

It should be noted that the front filters 600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650,660, and 670 described below are merely for illustrative purposes andcan be altered in size, direction, orientation, and/or positioning tocreate a desired effect. For example, apertures formed by front filters600, 610, 620, 630, 640, 650, 660, and 670 can change in size to complywith the requirements of a desired application (e.g., spray booth, homeHVAC, commercial HVAC). To this end, an aperture formed in asubstantially rectangular shape can be modified to be formed in othershapes including but not limited to, circular, square, oval, octagonal,and triangular. Additionally, the number of apertures can be alteredsuch that an embodiment with four apertures can be modified to havingany number of apertures including, but not limited to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6,7, and 8.

FIGS. 16, 17, and 18 illustrate a filter utilizing a cross front filter600 having four apertures 602. In some embodiments, cross front filter600 is fabricated to create apertures 602 that differ in size and/orshape from the other apertures 602. FIGS. 19, 20, and 21 illustrate afilter utilizing a double wall front filter 610 having a center aperture612. In the exemplary embodiment, double wall front filter 610 includesa top flap 614 extending from the top of the filter and a bottom flap616 extending up from the bottom of the filter. In some embodiments,double wall filter 610 is fabricated from multiple pieces, such thatflaps 614 and 616 are not integrally formed together. Alternatively,front filter 610 can be formed as a single unit.

FIGS. 22, 23, and 24 illustrate a filter utilizing an hourglass frontfilter 620 forming two opposing triangular apertures 622. FIGS. 25, 26,and 27 illustrate a filter utilizing an overhang front filter 630 havinga flap 632. Flap 632 extends from a top of the filter to act as acollection point for particulate forcing a redirection of flow aroundflap 632 when substantial accumulation occurs on flap 632. As notedabove, flap 632 can be positioned to be extending from any wall of thefilter.

FIGS. 28, 29, and 30 illustrate a filter utilizing a strip front filter640 having a divider 642 forming two apertures 644. While divider 642 isshown oriented vertically, divider 642 can be oriented in any mannerthat facilitates filtration including, but not limited to, horizontallyand diagonally. FIGS. 31, 32, and 33 illustrate a filter utilizing awall front filter 650 with a single aperture 652 formed by a wallextending from at least one edge of the filter. FIGS. 34, 35, and 36illustrate a filter utilizing a diagonal front filter 660 that extendsfrom one edge into the filter cavity. FIGS. 37, 38, and 39 illustrate afilter utilizing an inverted front filter 670 having a center aperture672 formed by four walls extending from the edges of the filter into thecavity.

It should be noted that the front filters front filters 600, 610, 620,630, 640, 650, 660, and 670 can be created to partially, if notentirely, block direct flow access into the second aperture of thefilter forcing flow D around front filters and against side walls beforeentering into the second aperture.

FIG. 40 is a front perspective view of an alternative filter 700 for usewith the ventilation system shown in FIG. 1. In the exemplaryembodiment, filter 700 is formed from filter media 701 and includes afront wall 702, top wall 704, back wall 705, bottom wall 706, first sidewall 708, and second side wall 710. Side vents 712 are formed betweenfront wall 702 and walls 704, 706, 708, and 710. In some embodiments,front wall is supported by frame 714. Alternatively, veins or rods canbe inserted between wall 702 and walls 704, 706, 708, and 710 to providesupport.

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of a flat panel filter 800. In theexemplary embodiment, filter 800 is configured to be utilized within aresidential and/or commercial HVAC system, such as that shown in FIG.41A. Alternatively, filter 800 can also be utilized as a filter infiltration system 100 shown in FIG. 1. Similarly, it should be notedthat the filters described above can also be utilized within residentialand/or commercial HVAC systems. In the exemplary embodiment, filter 800includes a wrap or housing 802 that substantially encases filter media804. Housing 802 is capable of providing support and structure to filtermedia 804 such that filter 800 can be easily positioned in a flowpattern (e.g., HVAC system).

FIG. 41A is a schematic illustration of an exemplary HVAC system 801capable of utilizing filter 800 shown in FIG. 41. System 801 includesone or more return air ducts 803 that draw in flow from a return 805(e.g., grill) by a fan 807. The flow then passes through a filter, suchas filter 800, disposed within a filter receptacle 813 sized to receivefilters of a desired dimension. The filter traps, collects, and/orretains unwanted particulate from the flow allowing clean flow whichcauses the flow to pass over or through heating elements 809 and/orcooling coils 811 to change the temperature of the flow. Then the flowexits out of a supply air duct 815, exit 817 (e.g., grill), and/or anexhaust air duct 819.

Referring back to FIG. 41, in some embodiments, filter 800 includes afront and/or rear panel 806 that further provides support to filter 800and/or filter media 804. In one embodiment, the font and/or rear panel806 is fabricated from a material similar to that of housing 802. In theexemplar embodiment, the housing 802 and panel 806 is fabricated frompaper and/or cardboard, however housing 802 and panel 806 can befabricated from any filter frame material described above.

As noted above, filter 800 is designed to fit into any HVAC system andas such, filter 800 can have any size that facilitates filtrationdescribed herein including, but not limited to, 10″×20″ (25.4 cm×50.8cm), 12″×12″ (30.5 cm×30.5 cm), 12″×20″ (30.5 cm×50.8 cm), 12″×24″ (30.5cm×61.0 cm), 14″×14″ (35.6 cm×35.6 cm), 14″×20″ (35.6 cm×50.8 cm),14″×24″ (35.6 cm×61.0 cm), 14″×25″ (35.6 cm×63.5 cm), 15″×20″ (38.1cm×50.8 cm), 16″×20″ (40.6 cm×50.8 cm), 16″×25″ (40.6 cm×63.5 cm),18″×20″ (45.7 cm×50.8 cm), 18″×24″ (45.72 cm×61.0 cm), 20″×20″ (50.8cm×50.8 cm), 20″×25″ (50.8 cm×63.5 cm), 20″×30″ (50.8 cm×76.2 cm), and24″×24″ (61.0 cm ×61.0 cm). Similarly, filter 800 has a depth(thickness) 810 that corresponds to the system being used. The depth 810of filter 800 can be any depth including, but not limited to 1″ (2.54cm), 2″ (5.08 cm), 3″ (7.62 cm), 4″ (10.16 cm), 5″ (12.7 cm), 10″ (25.4cm), 20″ (50.8 cm), 30″ (76.2 cm), and 40″ (101.6 cm).

In the exemplary embodiment, filter 800 includes a pleated filter media804. FIGS. 42 and 43 are illustrations of an exemplary filter media 804for use with filter 800 shown in FIG. 41 and/or filters 200, 300, 400,and 500 shown in FIGS. 2-15. Filter media 804 includes a first filterlayer 820 and a second filter layer 822. First and second filter layers820 and 822 are fabricated from a filter media described above in theform of pleats. In one embodiment, the layers 820 and 822 are fabricatedfrom polypropylene and polyolefin plastic. The second filter layer 822is positioned over first layer 820 to provide a pre-filter for firstlayer 820. In some embodiments, first and second layers 820 and 822 arecoupled together by gluing. Alternatively, layers 820 and 822 can becoupled together in any manner that enables layers 820 and 822 tofunction together as a single filter including, but not limited to,stitching, heat staking, laminating, and ultrasonically welding. Itshould be noted that first layer 820 can be selected from a materialthat provides support and maintains uniformity of pleats of second layer822 as filter 800 undergoes and/or is subjected to compression

With each of layers 820 and 822 fabricated as pleats, two layers offiltration can be positioned within one filter in a space saving manner.For example, a filter having a 1″ (2.54 cm) depth can facilitate firstlayer 820 being 1″ (2.54 cm) in depth with second layer 822 having ½″(1.27 cm) depth being positioned over first layer 820. Likewise, a 2″(5.08 cm) depth filter can facilitate a 2″ (5.08 cm) first layer 820with a 1″ (2.54 cm) second layer 822, a 4″ (10.16 cm) depth filter canfacilitate a 4″ (10.16 cm) first layer 820 with a 2″ (5.08 cm) secondlayer, and a 5″ (12.7 cm) depth filter can facilitate a 5″ (12.7 cm)first layer 820 with a 2.5″ (6.35 cm) second layer. It should be notedhowever, that the depths of layers 820 and 822 can be anything thatfacilitates filtration and accomplishes the desired application. In oneembodiment, second layer 822 is fabricated as a substantially flatportion of media such that it is not fabricated with pleats. In analternative embodiment, first layer 820 is fabricated as a flat portionof media while second layer 822 is fabricated with pleats. Even thoughmedia 804 is discussed as being fabricated as being pleated, it shouldbe noted that media 804 can have any shape and/or pattern including, butnot limited to a wave or waveform pattern (sine, square, triangle,rectangle, and saw tooth).

In the exemplary embodiment, second layer 822 has a plurality ofapertures 824. While apertures 824 are illustrated as being oval inshaped, it should be noted that apertures 824 can be created in anyshape and have any size that facilitates filtration as described herein.Additionally, the spacing between apertures 824 can vary to accommodatethe desired application. In operation, particulate laden flow D is movedacross or over second layer 822. Layer 822 filters flow D by collectingand/or attracting particulate on the surface of second layer 822. Asshown by FIG. 43, the apertures 824 allow a portion of flow D to beredirected to first layer 820 as the surface of second layer 822 becomesclogged. Similarly, as the bottom portion 827 of first layer 820 becomesclogged or laden with particulate 826, a vortex begins to be created andflow is redirected 828 into sidewalls of first layer 820 such thatparticulate begins to accumulate through the sidewalls 829 of firstlayer 820.

The two medias 820 and 822 will then be coupled together by gluing thepeak of 820 to the peak of 822. This will not only prevent bypass ofunwanted particulate between the valleys but will provide stability tothe filter. Media 822 will create a blocking or umbrella effect overmedia 820 to aid in inhibiting front loading of media 820 betweenapertures 805 which will increase the life of the filter.

In one embodiment, filter 800 is incased in a two piece die cut high wetstrength beverage board 806. The ends of all four edges of media 820 and822 are coupled (e.g., glued) to the inside edges of 806. The media 804,820, and 822 used is a nonwoven synthetic media blend hypoallergenicwith an electrostatic charge and an antimicrobial treatment. In such anembodiment, media 820 has a MERV rating in the range of 8-17 and media822 has a MERV rating in the range of 2-15. However, it should be notedthat the media of filter 800 can have any of the properties of mediadescried above.

In one embodiment, filter 800 will is a 20″×25″×5″ (50.8 cm×63.5 cm×12.7cm) filter with media 820 having a depth from peak to valley of 5″ (12.7cm) and media 822 having a depth from peak to valley of 2½″ (6.35 cm).In such and embodiment, 8 pleats per linear foot extending 25″ in (63.5cm) length provides 16 pleats in filter 800. Alternatively, any numberof pleats can be used. In one embodiment, apertures 824 have a diameterof ¾″ (1.91 cm) and are spaced apart in each valley by 4″ (10.16 cm). Insuch and embodiment, apertures 824 alternate positions in the valleysuch that aperture 824 are spaced apart 4″ (10.16 cm) in the latitudinaland longitudinal directions. Such a pattern provides filter 800 with aneven airflow and properly blanket media 820 partially covering 820 fromdirect flow which creates a void between the first 820 and second layers822. Accordingly, in such an embodiment, a total of approximately 72apertures would exists in filter 800 dimensioned as described above.

Similar to the effects created by filter 800, FIGS. 44-46 illustratealternative filter media constructions that can be utilized with filter800 and/or filters 200, 300, 400, and 500 shown in FIGS. 2-15. FIG. 44is a perspective view of filter media 900 that can be utilized withfilter 800 shown in FIG. 41 and FIG. 45 is a side cut-away view of thefilter media 900 shown in FIG. 44. In the exemplary embodiment, thefilter media utilized in FIGS. 44, 45, and 46 is a multi-denier,multistage polyester media. Alternatively, the media can be fabricatedwith any of the materials described above. In the exemplary embodiment,the filter media shown in FIGS. 44, 45, and 46 can be fabricated as apad or blanket. Although the pads can have any size needed for desiredapplications, the pads can be fabricated in sizes including, but notlimited to, 20″×20″ (50.8 cm×50.8 cm), 20″×25″ (50.8 cm×63.5 cm),24″×24″ (60.96 cm×60.96 cm), 16″×20″ (40.64 cm×50.8 cm), 16×25″ (40.64cm×63.5 cm), and 25″×25″ (63.5 cm×63.5 cm). Similarly to pads, blanketscan have any size needed for desired applications. In some embodiments,the blankets are fabricated as a roll or sheet and can have any sizenecessary including, but not limited to, 24″×6′ (60.96 cm×1.83 m),24″×12′ (60.96 cm×3.66 m), 24″×24′ (60.96 cm×7.32 m), 24″×48′ (60.96cm×14.63 m), 36″×6′ (91.44 cm×1.83 m), 36″×12′ (91.44 cm×3.66 m),36″×24′ (91.44 cm×7.32 m), 36″×48′ (91.44 cm×14.63 m), 48″×6′ (1.22m×1.83 m), 48″×12′ (1.22 m×3.66 m), 48″×24′ (1.22 m×7.32 m), 48″×48′(1.22 m×14.63 m), 60″×6′ (1.52 m×1.83 m), 60″×12′ (1.52 m×3.66 m),60″×24′ (1.52 m×7.32 m), and 60″×48′ (1.52 m×14.63 m).

In the exemplary embodiment, media 900 includes a top filter media layer902, a middle filter layer 904, and a backer or base layer 906. In theexemplary embodiment, middle layer 904 is fabricated with asubstantially open web or matrix of fibers that is less dense (e.g.,more open) that the matrix of first layer 902 and/or backer 906.Alternatively, layers 902, 904, and 906 are fabricated having the samematerial and having the same density. Although the depth/height of media900 can be anything desired for particular applications, in oneembodiment, the total depth/height is two inches (5.08 cm). In such anembodiment, top layer will 902 will have a depth/height of 0.15″ (2.81mm), middle layer 904 has a depth/height of 1.25″ (3.175 cm), and bottomlayer or backer 906 has a depth/height of 0.65″ (1.651 cm).

Top layer 902 is configured with a plurality of first apertures 910created within layer 902 and middle layer 904 is configured with aplurality of second apertures or voids 912 created within middle layer904. In the exemplary embodiment, apertures 910 are created as squaresbeing 1″ (2.54 cm) in diameter and apertures 912 are created as squaresbeing 2″ (5.08 cm) in diameter. However, apertures 610 and 612 can befabricated to be any shape including, but not limited to, circle,diamond, rectangle, pentagon hexagon triangle, and pyramid and have anydiameter that facilitates filtration as described herein. In someembodiments, apertures 610 and 612 are created in a reoccurringalternating pattern, however the pattern of apertures 610 and 612 can beany pattern including, but not limited to being, symmetrical, random,and semi-random. In one embodiment, apertures 610 and 612 are spacedapart from the center point of each aperture 610 by 3″ (7.62 cm)however, the spacing can be anything required for particularapplications.

The first apertures 910 have a maximum diameter, cross-sectionaldimension, or width 911 and voids 912 have a maximum diameter or width913. Top layer 902 is positioned over middle layer 904 such that firstapertures 910 are positioned over second apertures 912. In oneembodiment, apertures 910 and 912 are created in a square or rectangularshape, however, apertures 910 and 912 can be formed in any shape thatfacilitates filtration as described herein including, but not limitedto, a circle, oval, hexagon, diamond, triangle, and polygon. While thefilter media 900 shown in FIGS. 44-46 is illustrated utilizing the sameshapes as the first and second apertures 910 and 912, it should be notedthat the first aperture 910 can have a shape (e.g., circle or oval) thatis different from the second aperture or void 912 (e.g., square orrectangle).

In operation, particulate laden flow D moves against top layer 902 andparticulate 920 begins to accumulate on the surface of layer 902. Asparticulate accumulates, suction force placed on media 900 forces orredirects flow D to enter through first aperture 910 downward to backer906 where flow D is filtered and particulate 920 begins to accumulate.As particulate 920 accumulates on backer 906, flow D is redirected intosidewalls of middle layer 904 and down into backer 906 to exit as cleanflow C.

FIG. 46 is a side cut-away view of an alternative embodiment 901 of thefilter media 900 shown in FIG. 45. In the alternative embodiment, thesidewalls of middle layer 904 are angled and/or tapered toward backer906 to create a concave shape within aperture 912. In some embodiments,the sidewalls of layer 904 are angled from layer 902 to layer 906,however it is contemplated that only a portion of the sidewalls of layer904 would be angled, such as depicted in FIG. 46. In operation, theconcave shape of the sidewalls of middle layer 904 create a moreturbulent effect (e.g., vortex) on flow D when particulate hasaccumulated on layers 902 and 906, which in turn can increase theefficacy of media 900 and/or the filter.

FIGS. 47-50 are side cut-away views of alternative embodiments 950, 960,970, and 980 of the filter media 900 shown in FIG. 45. Similar to media900 and 901, each of media 950, 960, 970, and 980 includes a firstaperture 910 and a void 912 that extends between aperture 910 and baselayer 906. In each of embodiments 950, 960, 970, and 980, apertures 910have a maximum cross-sectional dimension or width 911 and voids 912 havea maximum cross-sectional dimension or width 913 and the maximum width913 is larger than the maximum width 911. In the exemplary embodiment,the maximum width 911 of apertures 910 is ½″ (1.27 cm) and the maximumwidth 913 of voids 912 is 1½″ (3.81 cm). Alternatively, maximum widths911 and 913 can be any dimension that facilitates filtration asdescribed herein including, but not limited to, 1″ (2.54 cm), 1½″ (3.81cm), 2″ (5.08 cm), and 3″ (7.62 cm).

FIG. 47 represents a diamond shaped filter media that substantiallymimics the effectiveness of the filters shown in FIGS. 2-14. As such,media 950 is formed by projections 914 extending from layer 906.Projections 914 are fabricated to form a first aperture 916 that formsan inner plenum that extends from aperture 916 to layer 906. The innerplenum has a cross-sectional dimension (e.g., width) with at least onecross-sectional dimension of inner plenum that decreases (e.g., tapers)from aperture 916 to an intermediate location between aperture 916 andlayer 906 to define a front plenum section (i.e., upstream plenumsection) 917. In the illustrated embodiment, inner surface of each ofthe side walls defining the front plenum section 917 extends inward atan angle relative to a longitudinal axis. The cross-sectional dimensionof inner plenum increases (e.g., flares) from an intermediate locationtoward (e.g., to) layer 906 to define a rear plenum section (i.e.,downstream plenum section) 918. The intermediate location defines asecond aperture (or neck) 919 leading to rear (downstream) plenumsection and flowably coupling front and rear plenum sections to oneanother. A cross-sectional area of first aperture 916 is greater thancross-sectional area of second aperture 919. For example, thecross-sectional area of first aperture 916 may be from about 0.5 timesto about 20 times greater than cross-sectional area of second aperture919. Thus, the illustrated inner plenum has a generally hourglass shape(i.e., hourglass shape in longitudinal section). The filter also has anhourglass shape in longitudinal section. The plenum(s) and/or media 950may have other shapes without necessarily departing from the scope ofthe present invention.

It should be noted that apertures 910 having a smaller cross-sectionaldimension (e.g, width) than voids 912 enables aperture to create anaccelerated direct flow into void 912 that will create a turbulenteffect of the flow D to facilitate particulate build-up throughout void912. In some embodiments, the increased velocity of flow D into void 912will apply pressure to top layer 902 and/or edges of aperture 910 tocreate a funnel or diaphragm effect. Additionally, the limited width ofaperture 910 relative to void 912 substantially restricts flow D fromescaping from void 912 without undergoing filtration.

While the media 900, 901, 950, 960, 970, and 980 shown in FIGS. 44-50 isillustrated as three layers, it should be noted that media 900, 901,950, 960, 970, and 980 can be fabricated as one single layer or ofmultiple layers including but not limited to 2, 4, 5, and 6. For examplelayers 902 and 904 can be fabricated as one layer with layer 906 coupledto the layers, or layers 904 and 906 can be fabricated as 1 layer withlayer 902 coupled to the layers. Similarly, any of layers, such as layer904, can be fabricated as multiple layers. Additionally, while layers902, 904, and 906 are described as having different densities, thelayers can be fabricated from the substantially similar or the samematerial having substantially similar or the same densities.

As described above with reference to FIGS. 44, 45, and 46 the filtermedia shown in FIGS. 47, 48, 49, and 50 can be fabricated as a pad orblanket. Although the pads can have any size needed for desiredapplications, the pads can be fabricated in sizes including, but notlimited to, 20″×20″ (50.8 cm×50.8 cm), 20″×25″ (50.8 cm×63.5 cm),24″×24″ (60.96 cm×60.96 cm), 16″×20″ (40.64 cm×50.8 cm), 16×25″ (40.64cm×63.5 cm), and 25″×25″ (63.5 cm×63.5 cm). Similarly to pads, blanketscan have any size needed for desired applications. In some embodiments,the blankets are fabricated as a roll or sheet and can have any sizenecessary including, but not limited to, 24″×6′ (60.96 cm×1.83 m),24″×12′ (60.96 cm×3.66 m), 24″×24′ (60.96 cm×7.32 m), 24″×48′ (60.96cm×14.63 m), 36″×6′ (91.44 cm×1.83 m), 36″×12′ (91.44 cm×3.66 m),36″×24′ (91.44 cm×7.32 m), 36″×48′ (91.44 cm×14.63 m), 48″×6′ (1.22m×1.83 m), 48″×12′ (1.22 m×3.66 m), 48″×24′ (1.22 m×7.32 m), 48″×48′(1.22 m×14.63 m), 60″×6′ (1.52 m×1.83 m), 60″×12′ (1.52 m×3.66 m),60″×24′ (1.52 m×7.32 m), and 60″×48′ (1.52 m×14.63 m).

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of a cylindrical filter 1000 for use withthe filtration system 100 shown in FIG. 1. In the exemplary embodiment,filter 1000 is shown to be utilized as a hanging filter in that a topportion seals against a frame (e.g., tube sheet) of a conduit of afiltration system, such as conduit 114 shown in FIG. 1. Alternatively,filter 1000 can be fabricated to be positioned on a frame such thatfilter 1000 extends upward from a frame of a conduit of a filtrationsystem. In the exemplary embodiment, filter 1000 has a flow aperture1002 that is defined by an aperture seal (not shown) circumscribingaperture 1002 and configured to mate with and/or against a ventilationframe. Filter 1000 also includes a cap 1004 that substantially sealsfilter 1000 in a manner that forces flow through aperture 1002 into aventilation system.

In the exemplary embodiment, media 1006 includes a first layer 1008having a plurality of apertures 1010. A second layer 1012 is positionedunder or behind first layer 1008. As is described above, layers 1008 and1012 can be pleated, waved, planar, of any combination thereof as shownin FIG. 52.

Filter 1000 also includes filter media 1006 that extends betweenaperture 1002 and/or the aperture seal and cap 1004. In the exemplaryembodiment, filter media 1006 is shown as being substantially similar tomedia 804 shown in FIGS. 42 and 43. However, it should be understoodthat any of the media designs described in FIGS. 42-50 could be utilizedwith filter 1000 and/or other cylindrical filters. In some embodiments,filter 1000 is supported with the aperture seal and cap 1004.Alternatively, in some embodiments, filter 1000 is supported with afilter frame positioned within media 1006. Additionally, media 1006 canbe supported by a wrap 1014 circumscribing media 1006 to support and/ormaintain spacing of pleats as filter 1000 is subjected to and/orundergoes compression. Alternatively, spacers (e.g., beads) can bepositioned within pleats to work in conjunction and/or in place of wrap1014 to support and/or maintain the spacing of the pleats. In operation,dirty flow D is channeled over first layer 1008 and/or apertures 1010.Flow D that is not filtered by layer 1008 is filtered by layer 1012 toproduce clean flow C that exits out of filter through aperture 1002.

While filter 1000 is shown as being utilized in a coating airfiltration/ventilation system, the cylindrical filters described hereincan be utilized in any application that requires filtration through acylindrical filter including, but not limited to, cement kilns, cementtransfer stations, asphalt plants, foundries, lime kilns, coal firedpower plant baghouses, fly ash handling, bin vents, wood processing dustcollectors, spray driers, aluminum ore processing, steel mills, foodprocessing plants, vacuums (wet/dry, dust collection, sewage, drum,residential, and hazard waste), drinking water systems, pools, spas, andvehicle filtration (transmission, coolant, fuel, gas, and engine oil).To this, FIG. 53 is a cut-away view of an oil filter 1100 for use withhydraulic machinery or vehicles including, but not limited to,internal-combustion engines, aircraft, maritime vessels, gas turbineengines, as well as oil production, transport, and recycling facilities.

In the exemplary embodiment, oil filter 1100 includes a housing 1102coupled to a base plate 1104. Formed within base plate 1104 is an exitaperture 1106 that is defined by a plurality of threads 1108 forcoupling to the desired application. A center tube 1110 extends frombase plate 1104 into a cavity within housing 1102. Filter media 1112circumscribes tube 1110 and is held in position by a lower end cap 1114and an upper end cap 1116. As described above in regards to alternativecylindrical filters, media 1112 is shown as being substantially similarto media 804 shown in FIGS. 42 and 43. As such, media 1112 includes afirst layer 1118 with a plurality of apertures 1120 positioned over asecond filter layer (not shown). However, it should be understood thatany of the media designs described in FIGS. 42-50 could be utilized.Additionally, an anti-drain back valve 1122 is positioned between lowercap 1114 and baseplate 1104.

In operation, similar to the filtration described above, oil/fluidenters filter 1100 through inlet 1124 and fills the cavity of the filterbetween media 1112 and housing 1102. The oil/fluid is filtered throughthe second layer of media 1112 as well as first layer 1118, unless flowentered through apertures 1120. An oil filter such as the one describedherein provides a two-stage (e.g., layered) filtration of oil/fluidwherein known oil filters only provide one layer. As such, the uniquedesigns described herein provide for a more efficient, longer lasting,and cost effective filtration solution that can improve environmentalwaste by preserving being able to filter for longer periods of time.

It should be noted that any of filters described herein can be used withfiltration system 100 and also known to be filter or filters 101. Inoperation, the suction force provided by motor or blower 112 pullsand/or extends back walls 205 and/or 305 away from front faces 204and/or 304 to maintain an extended configuration of the filter as theframe is retained against a portion of filtration assembly 100. As such,filters 200 and 300 enable the filter to be compressed for ease oftransportation and have an expanded configuration without the need ofadditional materials.

While the examples provided herein are applicable to coating (e.g.,paint, stain, powder coat) applications, the filtration systems and/orfilters described above can be utilized within any system requiringfiltering, including but not limited to ventilation and systemincluding, but not limited to residential and commercial HVAC systems,cement kilns, cement transfer stations, asphalt plants, foundries, limekilns, coal fired power plant baghouses, fly ash handling, bin vents,wood processing dust collectors, spray driers, aluminum ore processing,steel mills, and food processing plants. Although specific features ofvarious embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings andnot in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with theprinciples of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referencedand/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

What is claimed is:
 1. A filter comprising: an upstream side defining afirst aperture; a downstream wall comprising filter media, a length ofthe filter extending between the upstream side and the downstream wall;at least one side wall comprising filter media and extending lengthwisebetween the upstream side and the downstream wall, wherein the upstreamside, the downstream wall, and the at least one side wall togetherdefine an inner plenum in flowable communication with the firstaperture; wherein the inner plenum has a cross-sectional area extendingcrosswise of the filter, the cross-sectional area decreasing fromadjacent the upstream side toward to downstream wall to a contractedlocation disposed intermediate the upstream side and the downstreamwall, the cross-sectional area of the inner plenum increasing fromadjacent the contracted location toward the downstream wall; acontracting retainer attached to the at least one side wall at thecontracted location and extending through the at least one side wall andinto the inner plenum, the contracting retainer configured to retain thecross-sectional area of the inner plenum at the contracted location. 2.The filter according to claim 1, wherein the inner plenum has agenerally hourglass shape in longitudinal section.
 3. The filteraccording to claim 1, wherein the at least one side wall defines asecond aperture at the contracted location, the first aperture having across-sectional area greater than a cross-sectional area of the secondaperture.
 4. The filter according to claim 1, further comprising a frameattached to the upstream side.
 5. The filter according to claim 4,wherein the frame at least partially surrounds the first aperture. 6.The filter according to claim 1, wherein the contracting retainercomprises at least one vane in the inner plenum.
 7. The filter accordingto claim 6, wherein the at least one vane comprises a plurality ofvanes.
 8. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the cross-sectionalarea of the inner plenum tapers from the upstream side toward to thecontracted location, wherein the cross-sectional area of the innerplenum tapers from the downstream wall to the contracted location. 9.The filter according to claim 1, wherein the at least one side wallincludes first and second side walls opposing one another, and third andfourth side walls opposing one another, wherein the contracting retaineris attached to and extends through the first and second side walls. 10.The filter according to claim 9, wherein the contracting retainercomprises a plurality of contracting retainers attached to and extendingthrough the first and second side walls, wherein the contractingretainers are spaced apart from one another between the third and fourthside walls.
 11. The filter according to claim 9, wherein the third andfourth side wall are free from the contracting retainer.
 12. The filteraccording to claim 9, wherein the first and second side walls extendinward toward one another from the upstream side toward the contractedlocation.
 13. The filter according to claim 12, wherein the third andfourth sides are generally parallel to one another from the upstreamside toward the contracted location.
 14. The filter according to claim13, wherein the first and second side walls extend outward away from oneanother from the contracted location toward the downstream wall.
 15. Thefilter according to claim 14, wherein the third and fourth sides aregenerally parallel to one another from the contracted location towardthe downstream wall.
 16. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the atleast one side wall defines opposing first and second inner surfaces,wherein the contracting retainer extends between the opposing first andsecond inner surfaces within the inner plenum.
 17. The filter accordingto claim 16, wherein the contracting retainer comprises a fastenerextending between the opposing first and second inner surfaces withinthe inner plenum.
 18. The filter according to claim 17, wherein thefastener comprises a plurality of fasteners extending between theopposing first and second inner surfaces within the inner plenum,wherein the fasteners are spaced apart from one another within the innerplenum.
 19. The filter according to claim 1, wherein the contractingretainer comprises a fastener attached to the at least one side wall atthe contracted location and extending through the at least one side walland into the inner plenum.
 20. The filter according to claim 19, whereinthe fastener is configured to resist adherence to particulate.
 21. Afilter comprising: an upstream side defining a first aperture; adownstream wall comprising filter media, a length of the filterextending between the upstream side and the downstream wall; at leastone side wall comprising filter media and extending lengthwise betweenthe upstream side and the downstream wall, the at least one side wallhaving an exterior; wherein the upstream side, the downstream wall, andthe at least one side wall together define an inner plenum in flowablecommunication with the first aperture; wherein the inner plenum has across-sectional area extending crosswise of the filter, thecross-sectional area decreasing from adjacent the upstream side towardto downstream wall to a contracted location disposed intermediate theupstream side and the downstream wall, the cross-sectional area of theinner plenum increasing from adjacent the contracted location toward thedownstream wall; and a contracting retainer attached to the at least oneside wall at the contracted location, the contracting retainerconfigured to retain the cross-sectional area of the inner plenum at thecontracted location, wherein the contracting retainer surrounds theexterior of the at least one side wall.
 22. The filter according toclaim 21, wherein the contracting retainer comprises a band.
 23. Thefilter according to claim 22, wherein the band is rigid.
 24. The filteraccording to claim 22, wherein the band is flexible.
 25. A filtercomprising: an upstream side defining a first aperture; a downstreamwall comprising filter media, a length of the filter extending betweenthe upstream side and the downstream wall; at least one side wallcomprising filter media and extending lengthwise between the upstreamside and the downstream wall, wherein the at least one side wall definesfirst and second opposing inner surfaces; wherein the upstream side, thedownstream wall, and the at least one side wall together define an innerplenum in flowable communication with the first aperture; wherein theinner plenum has a cross-sectional area extending crosswise of thefilter, the cross-sectional area decreasing from adjacent the upstreamside toward to downstream wall to a contracted location disposedintermediate the upstream side and the downstream wall, thecross-sectional area of the inner plenum increasing from adjacent thecontracted location toward the downstream wall; a contracting retainerattached to the at least one side wall and extending between theopposing first and second inner surfaces within the inner plenum at thecontracted location, the contracting retainer configured to retain thecross-sectional area of the inner plenum at the contracted location. 26.The filter according to claim 25, wherein the contracting retainercomprises a fastener attached to the at least one side wall andextending between the opposing first and second inner surfaces withinthe inner plenum at the contracted location.
 27. The filter according toclaim 26, wherein the fastener comprises a plurality of fasteners spacedapart from one another within the inner plenum at the contractedlocation.
 28. The filter according to claim 25, wherein the fastenercomprises a vane attached to the at least one side wall and extendingbetween the opposing first and second inner surfaces within the innerplenum at the contracted location.